CHIZ DENIES MEETING WITH PGMA IN WASHINGTON

Senator Chiz Escudero on Monday denied rumors that he met with President Arroyo in Washington to discuss a possible alliance with the administration for the 2010 elections.

"Contrary to rumors, I never talked to President Arroyo about the 2010 elections while we were in the United States. As a matter of fact, I never talked to her at all, not even a hi or hello," he said.

Both Escudero and President Arroyo attended the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington last week. While there, there were text messages here saying that the two discussed a possible political alliance for 2010.

"It is just plain political intrigue and as such, counterproductive and pointless. The elections are too far away to be discussed. And even if it is near, the possibility of an alliance is nil. I am with the opposition and I will remain with the opposition, no matter what rumormongers say," Escudero said.

The senator said his denial should put the issue to rest. Malacañang had already denied the allegations contained in the text messages.